It’s been a long time since I’ve written an article about the John Deere mowers at all so it’s time to give you a thorough update. This is my review of the 2017 John Deere D100 Lawn Tractors. The 100 series consists of the D105, D110, D125, D130, D140, D155, D160, D170 Lawn Tractors.
When you get done here stop by and read this new, updated article: Which New 2018 John Deere E100 Series Lawn Tractor Is Right For Me?
Are these good tractors and are they the best choice for you?
The Internet is full of statements from people stating that the John Deere D100 Series lawn tractor you buy at Lowes or The Home Depot is different and not as good as the same model sold at a John Deere dealer. In this article, I’ll discuss this statement and then give you a short review of each model to see if a John Deere 100 Series lawn tractor is the best riding mower for you.
When sized properly to their lawns, John Deere owners love their lawn tractors.
The John Deere D100 series riding mowers are designed for the same types of lawns as the Cub Cadet XT1, XT2 Enduro series, Husqvarna YT, Troy-Bilt XP and Craftsman Yard Tractors. The mowers are good, dependable lawn tractors when properly sized for your lawn. They feature dependable engines, good cutting decks, good ergonomics and easy to use controls.
My opinion in this article is backed up by other reputable online review sites. Specifically, Consumer Reports and consumersearch.com regularly give the John Deere D100 series lawn tractor high marks for quality, cutting your lawn and dependability.
Common Questions about the John Deere D100 series tractors.
Fake news, misinformed news or more to the point “my uncle’s brother’s 2nd cousin’s mechanic” is alive and well in the riding mower industry with Google indexing the lawn tractor forums and other sites where opinion means more than the facts it is really hard to figure out what riding mower is best for you. In this section I will separate the facts from the opinions so that you can make a better decision in regards to a John Deere 100 series lawn tractor.
My local mechanic/dealer told me that the John Deere D100 series are built in China. Is that true? Do yourself a favor and run away from that mechanic as fast as you can. Hard telling what other lies he is trying to get you to believe why his products are better than the other brands. Or maybe he has just been misinformed. Either way, The facts are the 100 and 200 series John Deere lawn tractors are proudly made in Greeneville, TN. While that area of the country may be “foreign” to the mechanic it is still a wonderful part of the United States.
My brother-in-law said the John Deere tractors are made by MTD? So who actually makes the John Deere D100 series Lawn Tractors? John Deere D100 series tractors are made by John Deere in a John Deere assembly plant. They are not farmed out (subcontracted) to another manufacturer. John Deere is the O.E.M. Just to be clear. Just like every other manufacturer today, the Greenville plant does not make every component that goes into the tractor. John Deere is a worldwide manufacturer so some of the parts may be made in other states or countries in another John Deere plant. In addition, some common parts like nuts, bolts, engines, transmissions, pulleys and electrical solenoids are made by other companies for John Deere. Some of these parts may be sourced from another country.
Who makes the engines? John Deere labeled engines in the D100 series are made for Deere by Briggs & Stratton. The basic engines are similar to the B&S Intek, Intek Plus and ELS engines. Briggs & Stratton has a product page that proves that fact: John Deere Lawn Mowers Powered by Briggs & Stratton
Who makes the transmissions? General Transmissions makes the CVT transmission in the D105. Tuff Torq makes the transmissions in the rest of the D100 series lineup.
Are the John Deere D100 series tractors at The Home Depot and Lowes the same as the tractors at my local John Deere dealer? Yes. There is no difference between the D105, D110, D125, D130, D140, D155, D160, D170 lawn tractors at your local big box store, local hardware store or the corporate John Deere implement dealer. There may be some confusion in the fact that some retail stores do not carry the entire line. For example, one big box store may carry the D125 and D160, another store carries the D130 and D155. Your local John Deere implement dealer will also carry other John Deere lawn tractors that look similar. The other tractors they carry are much more expensive and may be a better choice if you have a large property to mow, a small acreage to maintain or own livestock.
A Dealer Only Model
Can the John Deere D100 series pull heavy loads? John Deere recommends loads no more than the weight of the tractor and the rider. I am going to add this means a small yard cart, dethatcher, lawn sweeper and plug aerator on a relatively flat lawn. Specifically, John Deere 100 series lawn tractors are NOT garden tractors and you should not expect them to pull heavy loads through the woods, mow steep hills or use ground engaging implements. They are great for what they are designed for but will fail if abused. If you do use them to pull heavy loads the transmissions will not last. The list below states the transmissions in the different models and these trannys are all designed to mow your lawn for many years but they are not designed to pull heavy loads uphill. (See my review of the D170!)
- GT RS400 CVT – D105
- Tuff Torq TLT200A – D110, D125, D130
- Tuff Torq T40J – D140, D155
- Tuff Torq K46AC – D160, D170
What size decks do the John Deere D100 series have? The John Deere D100 series has 42 inch 2 blade, 48 inch 3 blade, 54 inch 3 blade stamped decks. All the decks are the basic John Deere Edge™ style that are tested and proven to mow your normal suburban lawn well. A smooth underside prevents grass buildup and clumping. A deep-deck mower design lifts grass for a clean, even cut.
How does the John Deere D100 series compare to the Craftsman, Cub Cadet and Husqvarna Lawn Tractors? The 42 inch John Deere Edge deck on the D105-D130 models is consistently rated “as good” as the Craftsman Pro and Cub Cadet XT Enduro 42 and 46 inch decks by independent testing magazines and by customer experience. The 42 inch John Deere Edge deck consistently rates higher than the Husqvarna 42-46 inch decks and the Simplicity 42-44 inch decks.
Initial, first mow experience is consistently higher than the other brands of lawn tractors – I’ll tell you why in the next key point below.
Why does the John Deere D100 series Lawn Tractors cost a little more than the comparable Cub Cadet, Craftsman, or Husqvarna?
Three reasons – no, green paint is not one of the reasons 🙂
Reason One: Consistent Buyer Experience. John Deere strives to create the same buying experience no matter where you buy your John Deere 100 series lawn tractor. In other words, John Deere has a much closer and consistent relationship between the retailer (Lowes-The Home Depot) and your local John Deere servicing dealer than the other brands. If you buy your John Deere at Home Depot and it needs service your local John Deere dealer treats you the same way as the person who came into his dealership and bought the tractor there. In fact, the local John Deere dealer’s sticker is on the tractor you bought at The Home Depot so you always know who to call if you have problems or questions about the lawn tractor.
Reason Two: Pre-Sale setup: The 10-Point Pre-Delivery Inspection
Every John Deere product, no matter where you buy it from, goes through a series of quality checks by a factory-trained technician before it goes out onto a showroom floor, let alone into your backyard. Yes, even the lawn tractors at The Home Depot are inspected. John Deere calls these quality checks the “10-Point Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)”. You’ll call it reassuring, intelligent, and common sense.
Here’s what is done. Every lawn tractor with the dealer sticker on the back of the machine has gone through this process:
1. Remove manufacturer’s packaging, dispose of properly, and remove product from the shipping crate
2. Connect the battery, test start the unit to make sure it “Runs Like a Deere”
3. Check fluid levels
4. Inspect safety switches
5. Examine belts and belt guides. Ensure nothing loosened during shipment. Install bumper if required
6. With engine running, engage the mower deck
7. Check tire pressure; ensure optimal pressure
8. Check to ensure the mower deck is level
9. Check Reverse Implement Option (RIO) on tractors
10. Ensure owner’s manual is with the unit and place PDI Dealer sticker (dealer sticker) on the unit, visible on the back green fender of the product.
Yes, some independent dealers of other brands may also have a pre-inspection but John Deere has a consistent pre-inspection from every dealer and retailer for every lawn tractor sold. Why does this matter? For example, I read many owners state that their Briggs & Stratton engine in other brands starts hard. In other words you have to crank the engine 10-20 seconds most of the time before it starts. You never hear of this issue with a D100 series Deere. Why? Because the John Deere tractors are started before you use them the first time. (The problem is actually a very simple one-screw adjustment of the throttle/choke cable.)
Reason Three: Backed by the John Deere Promise. Click here to read the 30 day money back promise: John Deere Home Trial Note: Your local Lowes and The Home Depot’s return policy may override the John Deere dealer promise. Please check with the dealer located on the sticker on the mower to be sure.
So this extra time spent by John Deere and your local John Deere dealer is the main reason these lawn tractors cost just a little more than the competing brands riding mowers. Consistent Quality, Consistent Dealer Experience and Consistent First Time Use means you will be happy right from the start.
So – What is wrong with these lawn tractors?
As a group there is nothing wrong with these lawn tractors, they are great riding lawn mowers. But there are two models I don’t recommend to most people. The John Deere 100 series are very competitive machines when compared to the current Cub Cadet and Craftsman for cut quality, bagging and mulching. They are consistently better than the Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, and Simplicity lawn tractors for cut quality, repairs and initial quality.
But are they worth the extra money you have to spend to get the “green paint? Let’s continue by reviewing the individual John Deere 100 series lawn tractors to find out. The John Deere D100 series consists of the D105, D110, D125, D130, D140, D155, D160, D170 Lawn Tractors.
John Deere D100 Series Review
From the John Deere website:
“Made Right from the Start. This is what happens when you don’t take short cuts.
Built to mow a 1/3 of an acre up to two acres, with mower deck sizes ranging from 42 to 54-inches, and horsepower to match, the D100 Series has been engineered the right way, right from the start, down to the tiniest detail.
With the D100 Series, a consistent, quality cut can be measured down to the ¼-inch, while toughness can be gauged through a cast iron front axle (to negotiate ruts and roots) and a 12-gauge steel frame that stands up to time.
Thoughtful engineering touches, such as a covered glove box for storage (D125, D130, D140, D155, D160 and D170), an electric power take off (PTO) to engage the mower deck (D140, D155, D160, D170), and lumbar seats (D155, D160, D170) make the D100 Series a cut above.”
So let’s go through each model of the John Deere D100 series models. I’ll list it’s basic features and then tell you who each model it is best suited for.
D105 Lawn Tractor
John Deere D105
17.5 hp‡ (13.0 kW) engine; 42-in. Edge™ Cutting System; CVT/automatic drive; Manual power take-off (PTO) About $1,499.00†
Buy From:
The D105 is the most basic John Deere lawn tractor available. It has an adequate 17.5 hp engine and the same deck as the more expensive D110, D125 and D130 units.
This is a fun, lightweight tractor designed for about 1/3 acre, flat lawns. This is a great mower for your small in-town lawn that you mow every week and you want to look the best. DO NOT expect this model to perform as well or last as long as the more expensive mowers or last on larger lawns. The engine is not designed for mowing on slopes. You may pull a small yard cart (John Deere 450 lb. 7 cu. ft. Tow-Behind Poly Utility Cart) but I strongly suggest that you don’t fill it with dirt, rocks or other heavy materials. It will accept the 2 bin bagger.
Let me repeat, don’t buy this lawn tractor because it’s the cheapest John Deere you can buy. It is only designed for small, relatively flat city lawns. I recommend this mower to very few people.
In fact, if you are doubt about if this is the right mower – DON’T buy it. Buy the D110 instead.
D110 Lawn Tractor
John Deere D110
19 hp‡ (14.2 kW) engine; 42-in. Edge™ Cutting System; Hydrostatic drive; Manual power take-off (PTO) About $1,699.00†
The single cylinder engine will have a little more vibration than the V-twin engines in the next two tractors – D125/D130 – but everything else is the same. I’ve driven this mower many times and to me the single cylinder engine is not an issue at all. The D110 steers easily and really works well for your 1/3 to 1 acre suburban lawn. Personally, I would have no problems owning this riding mower for my one acre gently sloping lawn.
D125 Lawn Tractor
John Deere D125
20 hp‡ (14.9 kW) V-twin engine; 42-in. Edge™ Cutting System; Hydrostatic drive; Manual power take-off (PTO); Cruise control. About $1,799.00†
FYI: The D125 and D130 lawn tractors are the same mower except for the engine and where they are sold. The Home Depot sells the D125 with the 20HP V-Twin and Lowes sells the D130 with the 22HP engine. John Deere has a comparison page where you can verify this yourself here: (John Deere Online Brochure)
If you are looking for a great mower for your 1/2 to 2 acre lawn the D125/D130 is a great choice. The V-Twin engine is smooth running and has more than enough power to handle any lawn. The deck cuts well and bags well. If you follow accepted practices these decks also do a great job for mulching. (mow 3 inches or higher and don’t cut off more than 1/3 third of the grass at a time)
The D125 is the most popular John Deere Lawn tractor and I highly recommend it for most suburban lawns. The 20 HP V-Twin engine in this mower is especially nice. The engine is quiet and smooth running. It has a little better fuel economy that the 22 HP in the D130.
This lawn tractor will handle a small/medium yard cart, dethatcher, aerator, lawn sweeper and other typical attachments. It is not designed for ground engaging or pulling heavy loads. The transmission has proven itself to mow hills well and last.
The steering radius is not as tight as the Craftsman Lawn tractors but it is very easy to steer and comfortable to mow with. I particularly like the foot operated speed control because I don’t have to move my old stiff ankle as much when speeding up and slowing down. Yes, it has cruise control.
One more thing: I am not exactly sure if this riding mower uses the basic Intek or Intek Plus engine internals so I am only going to recommend it for flat and gently sloping lawns. Why? The Intek Plus engine will handle 15 degree slopes for years and years because it uses a full pressure internal lube system that pumps the oil up to the critical bearings. The Intek engine does not have the same system and if you run it all the time on steep slopes it will fail 3 times faster than the Intek Plus. It’s a good engine and I own two tractors with the Intek but it’s not designed for constant use steep slopes.
Note: There is a California model.
D130 Lawn Tractor
John Deere D130
22 hp‡ (16.4 kW) V-twin engine; 42-in. Edge™ Cutting System; Hydrostatic drive; Manual power take-off (PTO); Cruise control. About $1,899.00†
FYI: The D125 and D130 lawn tractors are the same mower except for the engine and where they are sold. The Home Depot sells the D125 with the 20HP V-Twin and Lowes sells the D130 with the 22HP engine. John Deere has a comparison page where you can verify this yourself here: (John Deere Online Brochure)
If you are looking for a great mower for your 1/2 to 2 acre lawn the D125/D130 is a great choice. The V-Twin engine is smooth running and has more than enough power to handle any lawn. The deck cuts well and bags well. If you follow accepted practices these decks also do a great job for mulching. (mow 3 inches or higher and don’t cut off more than 1/3 third of the grass at a time)
This lawn tractor will handle a small/medium yard cart, dethatcher, aerator, lawn sweeper and other typical attachments. It is not designed for ground engaging or pulling heavy loads. The transmission has proven itself to mow hills well and last.
The steering radius is not as tight as the Craftsman Lawn tractors but it is very easy to steer and comfortable to mow with. I particularly like the foot operated speed control because I don’t have to move my old stiff ankle as much when speeding up and slowing down.
One more thing: I am not exactly sure if this riding mower uses the basic Intek or Intek Plus engine internals so I am only going to recommend it for flat and gently sloping lawns. Why? The Intek Plus engine will handle 15 degree slopes for years and years because it uses a full pressure internal lube system that pumps the oil up to the critical bearings. The Intek engine does not have the same system and if you run it all the time on steep slopes it will fail 3 times faster than the Intek Plus. It’s a good engine and I own two tractors with the Intek but it’s not designed for constant use on steep slopes.
D140 Lawn Tractor
John Deere D140
22 hp‡ (16.4 kW) V-twin engine; 48-in. Edge™ Cutting System; Hydrostatic drive; Manual power take-off (PTO); Cruise control. About $1,999.00†
The John Deere D140 has a 48 inch 3-blade deck and consistently rates as one of the better cutting “large area” decks for your lawn. The 48 inch size fits onto smaller utility trailers well and will go through the doors of most utility sheds easily. This is also one of the better bagging decks and surprisingly handles green grass clippings well. (Most baggers on lawn tractors don’t bag green grass well.) This size deck works well for 1 to 2 acres. John Deere does not have a 46 inch 2-blade deck or a 50 inch 3-blade deck.
D155 Lawn Tractor
John Deere D155
24 hp‡ (17.9 kW) V-twin engine; 48-in. Edge™ Cutting System; Hydrostatic drive; Electric power take-off (PTO); Cruise control. About $2,199.00†
For $200 more than the D140 the John Deere D155 gives you a better engine and electric deck engagement. Deck belts will last longer with the electric deck engagement. The 48 inch 3-blade deck and consistently rates as one of the better cutting “large area” decks for your lawn. The 48 inch size fits onto smaller utility trailers well and will go through the doors of most utility sheds easily. This is also one of the better bagging decks and surprisingly handles green grass clippings well. (Most baggers on lawn tractors don’t bag green grass well.) This size deck and engine combination works well for 1 to 3 acres. John Deere does not have a 46 inch 2-blade deck or a 50 inch 3-blade deck.
D160 Lawn Tractor
John Deere D160
25 hp‡ (18.6 kW) V-twin ELS engine; 48-in. Edge™ Cutting System; Hydrostatic drive; Electric power take-off (PTO); Cruise control;. About $2,349.00†
For $200 more than the D155 the John Deere D160 gives you a heavier transmission and larger tires. The larger tires allow this lawn tractor to ride better and won’t be as hard to use on rough lawns. This is a great tractor for your typical 1-3 acre farm lawn.
The 48 inch 3-blade deck and consistently rates as one of the better cutting “large area” decks for your lawn. The 48 inch size fits onto smaller utility trailers well and will go through the doors of most utility sheds easily. This is also one of the better bagging decks and surprisingly handles green grass clippings well. (Most baggers on lawn tractors don’t bag green grass well.)
D170 Lawn Tractor
John Deere D170
25 hp‡ (18.6 kW) V-twin engine; 54-in. Edge™ Cutting System; Hydrostatic drive; Electric power take-off (PTO); Cruise control. About $2,799.00†
Every brand makes at least one lawn tractor or zero-turn that I don’t recommend and the John Deere D170 is that John Deere lawn tractor. Why?
This riding mower falls into the category of LGT “light garden tractor.” What that means is just about every brand has a lawn tractor that looks like a great deal. It’s priced $300-$500 less than the garden tractors. It looks larger, has big tires, a big deck and looks muscular and cool. But there is a major problem with the LGTs.
The transmission is too small for the tractor. Let me explain.
The Tuff Torq K46 hydrostatic transmission is the most popular lawn tractor transmission ever and there are millions of them out mowing lawns every week. When sized properly to the lawn tractor they will last years and years. They are designed for lawn tractors and riding mowers that weigh up to 550 lbs, use a 48 inch or smaller deck, and 20 inch or smaller tires. (Kanzaki/Tuff Torq IHT Transaxle series K)
Unfortunately, a few manufacturers have also used this transmission in lawn tractors that are a little too heavy, use too large of tires and/or too large of deck. When they do that, the transmission has to work too hard and fails much sooner than it was designed too. The John Deere D170 is one of those tractors. The rear 22 inch tires and 54 inch deck will cause this transmission to fail within a few hundred hours if used for anything but mowing a flat lawn.
Now, there are thousands of the John Deere D170s out mowing lawns every week. If you have a flat lawn, for example a typical farm lawn in central Illinois, this lawn tractor will work very well for you. But do not expect the transmission to last if you have any slopes to mow up and down or you plan on using the tractor for chores like hauling a cart full of feed/manure.
I asked an engineer from Tuff-Torq once, “Why do the brands use this transmission for these heavier tractors when they know it’s too small.” His answer, “We can only suggest what they do with the transmissions. We can’t make them use them in the correct application.”
I wish John Deere would install the K58 transmission and increase the price $200. It would then be one of the best large area lawn tractors on the market.
Jesse
Hi Paul,
Wondering if a 48” deck could go on a D110. I found a used 48” deck in great condition and extremely cheap so wanted to see if that was something that could be done. If not, then could I still get it and use the 48” deck parts for the 42” mower?
Thank you in advance for this information and for any additional information you can provide!
Paul
Hi Jesse, if it was the same year it may fit. I don’t know if the frames on the D110 and the frame on the larger Deere are the same. I also don’t know if they use the same engine to deck belt.
Steve Smith
Paul is OBVIOUSLY being paid by John Deere to write this article. I bought a John Deere mower at Lowes,,,,HUGE MISTAKE!!!! A total piece of junk!!!!
Spent hundreds at John Deere dealership getting mower worked on,,, will not start 50 percent of the time.. i am giving you fair warning,,,DO NOT BUY A JOHN DEERE FROM LOWES!!! You will be sorry!!!
Paul
Hi Steve, No, John Deere doesn’t know I exist. That said, have you ever adjusted the throttle/choke cable to make sure the choke is completely closed when you go to start the mower? It’s a simple adjustment with a screwdriver right where the cable attaches to the carb. 90% – yes 90% of the starting issues with a new lawn tractor is this one simple adjustment.
Chris
Paul,
I have a 1/2 acre yard that is pretty flat. I am looking at two different used mowers and I would like your input. I’m looking at a 2013 John Deere D140 with 277 hours for $800 vs a 2018 CC LT46 with 35 hours for $1200. I plan on bagging all my grass and both mowers do not come with bagging systems. Any thoughts?
Paul
Hi Chris, I don’t recommend buying used mowers and I don’t recommend buying a D100 series Deere with more than 200 hours – unless you are buying it for parts. That said, the Cub Cadet is new enough that the current 42/46 inch Cub Cadet bagger sold fits the LT46
Wade Scronce
Paul,
i currently use a LX266 for about 20 plus years. I have a steep yard, little over half acre to mow. I want to give it to my son with a flat yard less than half acre. I’m looking at a S240 low hours, great shape. will that be as good a mower as my LX was? He’s asking 1500? maybe a little high?
Paul
Hi Wade, John Deere really doesn’t make an exact match to the LX266 at this time. The X380 is similar but has a slightly lighter duty transmission and the X570 is probably a closer match but it does have a heavier duty transmission than your old model. Either way, you are looking at $4600-$6500 for an equivalent replacement.
The S240 is not even close.
Wade Scronce
how about an X300 , that would be a good mower I’m assuming? and similar to the LX266, maybe a step up?
Paul
Hi Wade, The X300 is a step up from the S240 you were looking at but still a Long, long, way from the LX266. Here’s why – The LX266 has a K62 heavy-duty garden tractor transmission in it – the X300, S240 and all the 100 series Deeres have a light-duty K46 transmission. All of these mowers are designed to mow your flat lawn, pull a small cart, and are not designed to mow steep hills.
If that’s all you need then the X300 will do. But if you want to pull stuff, mow hills and have a mower that will last as long as the LX you will have to spend the money and go with a minimum of an X370 or preferably an X500 series.
Ron Davis
I have a John Deere D140. My right ankle gets uncomfortably hot during operation. Is this normal?
Paul
Hi Ron, Probably, The engine is air-cooled so it has to move a lot of air to keep it cool. The air is sucked in the top and then blasted out holes by the spark plug, starter, and on the other side from the starter.
Since the D140 doesn’t have side covers on the engine compartment so that air is probably blowing right on your foot. A piece of sheet metal should channel that air down out the bottom of the mower.
brady
Am I seeing this correctly, when JD upgraded to the “E” models the 160 lost the heavier duty transaxle from the “D” model?
Paul
Hi Brady, Yes, and now Deere is “hiding” any tranny information on the website so you can’t figure that out…
James
My jd L110 with Kohler command engine is 16 yrs old & runs & cuts fine. I will give it to my son & purchase a new one. However, the 2020 jd 110 has a Briggs engine which I don’t like. So, which jd tractor should I purchase that has as good an engine as the Kohler command engine was?
Paul
Hi James, the S240 and X300 series have Kawasaki engines in them. All of the E100 series uses the Briggs blocks.
If you want a Kohler you’ll have to buy a Cub Cadet. 2020 Cub Cadet Lawn Tractors and Garden Tractors
Joe
Paul is it possible to replace the K48 transmission with the bigger K58 transmission?
wonder what about the price?
Paul
Hi Joe, there is one guy out there who sells a K66 retrofit kit to replace the K46 on some lawn tractors. https://www.rjrtractor.com/
Richard Klimesh
You said, “I read many owners state that their Briggs & Stratton engine in other brands starts hard. In other words you have to crank the engine 10-20 seconds most of the time before it starts . . (The problem is actually a very simple one-screw adjustment of the throttle/choke cable.)”
My L118 is 13 years old and from day one it’s been hard to start. Below 75 degrees and it cranks for over a minute with copious amounts of starting fluid to get it going. Pleas, what it the simple one-screw adjustment that will get this sucker to start?
Paul
Hi Richard, I don’t have a picture to show you but the throttle/choke cable is not adjusted correctly and it’s not closing the choke all the way.
1. Most of the engines have a single cable for the choke and throttle. Find that (or the choke cable) and follow it to the carb.
2. Just before the cable connects to the choke there is a clamp held by a screw. The screw is usually a and combination 5/16-flathead screw head.
3. Now move the throttle/choke lever and watch the carb end of that cable. Move it all the way to full choke and watch cable at the carb end. Did you see which direction it moves when going to full choke?
4. Leave the cable in that position and slightly loosen the cable clamp. Move the cable sheath 1/8 inch in the same direction. (You are making for sure the choke is fully closed)
5. Tighten the cable clamp and try to start it. If it doesn’t start right away move the cable another 1/8 inch.
That’s it. That’s all you need to do.
sam
Hi Paul, this information is very informative. Thanks for putting this together. What are your thoughts on an L120 with around 200 hours. I have a slight sloping yard, 1 acre or so. physically it appears fine. any thought on this model. They are looking for 800 which I am not sure is reasonable or not. Another neighbor has a barely used D130 (15 hours of use) for 1400. The d130 has a 42 inch deck vs 48 for the L120. Any suggestion would be appreciated.
Paul
Hi Sam, According to my research that L120 is over 15 years old and its life expectancy has been around 250 hours. If you have to buy used I’d go with the E130.
You can get an E140 at The Home Depot brand new with the 2-year warranty for $1999. John Deere E140 48 in. 22 HP V-Twin Gas Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor
sam
thank you for the reply, I was thinking the same thing, helps to get validation
Gene
Hello, Paul,
Great article. Thanks.
I mow a level, 1/2 acre city yard. However, I have a rather large utility trailer (1400 pounds but with a very manageable tongue weight) that I hook to and move 15 feet every time I mow in order to prevent dead spots in the grass. This has been no problem at all for my old Murray 38″ tractor with an 11HP B&S engine, which I am about to retire after almost 20 reliable years. I plan to buy a John Deere 110 ASAP.
I value your opinion. 1) Can I expect the JD 110 to move this trailer without a fuss as did my trusty old Murray? 2) E models are expected in showrooms later this spring and will cost the same as the leftover D models on display now. I take care of my mowers and keep them for a long time. Would you wait for the E even if it means push mowing the yard a time or two?
Thank you.
Paul
Hi Gene, Yes the E110 will handle your trailer just as well as the Murray. Personally, since they will be the same price I would wait for the improved version. The only way I’d buy the D110 now is if they give you a 25% or better discount.
Mack
Hi Paul,
Thank you for the informative article. Do you know much about the older L110 Series? I could not find much online, but was offered one with about 350 hours. Seemed like they kept it in good condition and has a cart, but wanted to get some more information if you know about it. It appears to be from around 2004 from what I could find online. Thank you!
Paul
Hi Mack, That was Deere’s basic, bottom level hydro tractor and the D110 replaced it. If it was used on a small flat yard it should have some life left in it. They currently sell at dealers for $450-800.
Had tranny problems if it was used on hills, pull heavy loads or cleared snow. Also had problems with the engine using oil if it was used on hills.
As a second tractor for your yard it should last a few more years but if you use it as your primary expect to get only another 100 hours or so before major engine or tranny repair.
Mack
Thank you so much for the response!
Nexus
What’s the difference between the D series and the E series? Looking over the listings it seems the D110 is the same thing as the E110 but i see them both listed for sale.
Paul
Hi Nexus. The E series is the 2018 models and John Deere did make quite a few changes this year that is not readily apparent just looking at pictures.
Mainly, they changed the ergonomics. New controls, steering wheel, seat, deck lift and foot pedals. They also changed the floorboard so there is more leg/foot room.
They also added a new 30-second oil change system to the Briggs engines and now the three top models have the extended life Briggs engines.
Heere is a video explaining the details.
Brian
I’m looking at new lawn tractors. I have a roughly 1 acre plot in the Pacific Northwest. It’s mostly flat and lots of curves in the front. I was thinking about the d130 or d140 but ow have been considering the S240 or the X350, which with the $500 off deal now, makes it the same price. I plan to tow some and am looking for longevity. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you
Paul
Hi Brian, If you want towing and longevity you’ll have to go with the X350. It has a stronger transaxle than the other three lawn tractors.
Larry Moss
Hi Paul, I have written to you before regarding riding lawn mowers. Briefly I have a yard wihich has a ditch out front and the back has a slope with bumps & underlations. The grass is bermuda. I have tried the box store stores Club Cadet and John Deere 170? I also tried the JD x350. Still the same scaping problem. Not sure why JD did not install 4 wheels on the 42 cut. JD missed this one important factor. With the Club Cadet which has a 4 wheel deck I got little scaping but grass was coming out from around the deck and blowing everywhere even on me. Good side with the Cadet little scaping with the 4 wheels. So with all this I am now trying the Sears Pro Series 42. I am having the same problem that I had with the Cadet. No scaping but grass coming from underneath the deck. Supposely a rep from Sears will be here tomorrow. Incidentally the mulching kit for the Sears mower is the same as the Cadet. Neither one is worth the money. The two dealers could learn a lesson from JD on the quality of the mulching kit. Of course we have to factor in the cost.
Paul
Larry, if you are mowing your Bermuda grass properly you will not be happy with the cut of a lawn tractor. And not one of them will mulch it properly.
Why? The decks on the residential mowers which includes all lawn tractors are designed to cut well between 1 and 4 inches. That means side discharge mowing. They need special blades and baffles to bag or mulch.
Many can also mulch cool season grasses like bluegrass at 2.5 to 4 inches but they were never designed to mulch Bermuda at 1 to 1.5 inches. Why? 1. With normal mulching, you cut the clippings into small bits and a properly designed mulching deck is designed to drive that tiny clipping down into the turf. Since you are cutting Bermuda so short you need a very deep deck to lift, cut, recut and recut those clippings into a fine mulch. The deck on a lawn tractor is not deep enough to accomplish that. That’s why you are getting the blowby on the deck. It’s not deep enough to keep the clipping suspended while it recuts them fine enough to drop into the turf. 2. Mulching is a relatively new concept for homeowners and there is not enough demand to design a residential deck just for mulching warm season grasses.
The only ways to properly mulch Bermuda is to: 1. Buy a specialty mower designed for Bermuda. Sarlo is one brand that comes to mind. 2. By a commercial mower. The Lawn Care Nut on youtube is having good luck with the Worldlawn walk behinds and commercial guys are having good luck with ExMark, Toro, Walker, Wright, Hustler, Scag and other deep deck zero turn commercial mowers.
There are two other options. 1. The Husqvarna R220T Rider with the optional Combi deck is designed for mulching short grasses. It’s one of the best riding mowers made and very popular in Europe. Since everyone in the U.S. wants a zero-turn though they can be very hard to find and I doubt if you could find a dealer who would let you try one out. Your local dealer would have to order it. 2. The other option is a Robotic mower from Husqvarna. They are designed to cut/mulch European grasses. European grasses are cut a lot shorter than most of the U.S. lawns so those robotic mowers would be a good choice. And best of all they are sized for your 1/3 acre lawn!
Jeff
Hi Paul, I bought a John Deere D140 from Lowes in June 2017. The mower cut poorly right out of the gate, uneven cut. Checked deck height and tire pressure with all checking out ok. Today (oct. 25) I dropped the deck to sharpen the blades and clean out the grass and I found the problem.The blades were upside down…..UPSIDE DOWN! The only upside to this discovery is I don’t have to sharpen the blades because the cutting edge has never touch grass! I feel a couple mowers may slip through the cracks of the ten point inspection.
Paul
Hi Jeff, I normally don’t post “negative” reviews but this one is just too good to pass on!
Tim
Paul
Replacing an old Scott’s S1642 I have had for 7 years and bought used for $250. Looking for a new lawn tractor. We have about an acre with some hills the Scotts had no problem with. Would like the option to use a plow to take care of our 1/4 mile drive. I don’t bag. Loved the old Scott’s. Do you have a recommendation? Was looking at JD and Craftsman but having a hard time sifting through all the up and down ratings.
Paul
Hi Time, the 46 inch Craftsman Pro is a great choice. It cuts well and you can get a snow blade, weights and chains for it.
John
Hey Paul,
Really struggling to decide what direction to go with my mower purchase. I’ve got a 2 acre lawn with a modest septic mound and a few obstacles (patio, several trees, swing set). I’m torn between the touted reliability of the John Deere tractors vs the bang for my buck Craftsman line. With some current discounts I could land a Craftsman Pro Series 27038 42″ ($1620) or a Craftsman Pro Series 27042 46″ with TightTurn Extreme for a bit more ($1980). Alternatively, in that price range I’d be looking at a John Deere D125 or D140.
Any strong leanings one way or another?
Thanks so much!
Paul
Hi John, My first choice is the Craftsman Pro Series 27042 46″ with TightTurn Extreme. This tractor has developed an excellent reputation and I really like the Kohler engine in it.
Robert Kruckman
Paul: U just made my day. Last spring I was shopping for new mower. Read all Ur stuff, but still had to decide myself. I really liked the Cub, but could not handle the YELLOW!! Could have bought the JD but a lever on the left fender poked me rightyouknowwhere getting on and off. So I went with the 27042, even though Sears may go belly up. Very happy! Love that Kohler. Tight Turn is over rated. I also like electric belt engage. thanx
James Ewing
What factors would push someone up to a 300 or 500 series JD? Also, what would you say is the main reason to go to a 4WD lawn tractor? What is the entry level 4WD that you would suggest? It sounds like the D160 would be a good selection for me, but I wonder about having 4WD because sections or transitions in my yard have a pretty good slope.
Paul
Hi James, I really don’t have any good reasons why you would want to move up to the 300 series. Yes, the fit and finish is a little better than the 100/200 series but it still uses pretty much the same transmissions and grade of other components. Like the 100 series they are very light in the rear and don’t have traction for slopes greater than 15 degrees.
The 500 series is a solid step up in both parts and longevity of the tractor. If I just wanted a 4WD or a mower with a locking rear differential to mow with that is where I’d start to look.
But, right now and in the foreseeable future the Mahindra tractors are the best value/quality you can buy. They are just a few dollars more than the 500 series and offer so many more advantages. These sub-compact and compact tractors mow well plus they have many more features like 3-point hitch, hydraulics and cast iron drive trains. They will accept front mounted loaders and rear PTO attachments. The build quality is “Buy one and done” meaning you probably will be able to will it to your kids.
Todd wise
Hi paul,
I’m torn between a craftsman pro series with a limited differential or something by cub cadet (close to local dealer). I live in a rural area. Hilly yard and my old jd d110 spun a lot. What do you suggest? Is the limited slip diff worth the extra money. Budget $3500. Thank you
Paul
Hi Todd, Cub Cadet only has 2 models with the locking diff that I am aware of and they both have 54 inch decks. The Craftsman has 50 inch deck.
Since you have a local Cub Cadet dealer I suggest that you also look at a steering wheel ZTR. The Z-FORCE® S 48 is a little more than your budget but has the traction you want and will be more stable on the hills. It also comes with a good fabricated deck and may be the best answer for you.
Lynn
Hi Paul,
I bought a John Deere 105D this year and the belt tension has recently became so loose that I have to continually put the belt back on. I looked up and found that it is suppose to have a tensioning bracket but instead of being bolted as shown in the directions, it seems as if they have started welding the bracket on. How am I suppose to adjust the tension?
Paul
Hi Lynn, This is new? I would take it to the dealer where you bought it and have them repair the problem. If it’s a used machine I’d take it to a local repair shop and have them install the correct idler and bolt.
Doug
Hi Paul,
Great site, i have spent days reading your posts. I am looking at mowing about 2.5 acres and was comparing the Cub Cadet X2 54 D garden tractor, the X350 48″ John Deere and the top Craftsman Garden tractor as they seem to have similar pricing. My land has some hills right at 15% (about 1/2 acre). I like the X350 but it only comes with an 18.5 Kaw. engine and it has the k46 transmission. I only plan on mowing grass and pulling a cart sometimes maybe mulch etc…Do you think the X350 will hold up or should i go for one of the other mowers with more HP for example the X2 with the V Twin Kohler and a K62 transmission? My local John Deere dealer said he has had more D series reliability issues that the X350 but at over $1000 more, I would hope so.
Paul
Hi Doug, The small 20 inch rear wheels and 48 inch deck on the Deere will allow the K46 to last. Expect to replace the engine to transmission belt every 3-5 years.
The Cub Cadet XT2 falls right between the Deere 100 series and the X350. It has a stiffer frame than the 100 series and a tougher transmission than the X350 but the X350 does have some nicer “creature features” like the deck adjustment, seat and steering.
Kawasaki uses a different horsepower rating system than the rest of the industry so that 18.5 is pretty equal to a 22 hp Briggs in the 100 series Deeres. The 18.5 on the 48 inch deck is fine for Midwest bluegrass/fescue lawns but may be a little under powered for the much thicker southern zoya/bent grass lawns.
Vincent
Hi Paul, I am in the market for a lawn tractor now. After spending sometime on the internet, I pretty much narrowed down to John Deere D160 and Craftsman Pro 8200 (27042). My understand is they have some similarities as below
– Comparable engines – D160 has Briggs and Stratton 25HP ELS while 8200 has Kohler 7000 24HP Elite
– Comparable deck size – D160 is 48in(3 blades) while 8200 is 46in(2 blades)
– Same transmission unit –Kanzaki K46
A couple of questions here.
1. John Deere clearly indicates that the mower deck of D160 is 12 gauge stamped steel. But unfortunately I was not able to find any information about Craftsman Pro 8200. Do you have any insight?
2. Kanzaki website shows that the maximum tire size for K46 transmission is 20in. Does it mean to be the front tire, not the rear tire? The reason I ask is D160 has a 22in rear tire which is larger than 20in.
3. Is either engine better than the other?
Each model has its own impressive selling points.
– Craftsman Pro 8200 has 5in turn radius is very impressive.
– John Deere has an overall lower breakage rate(JD 22% vs Craftsman 38%) based on the survey from Consumer Report.
So I am wondering if you could provide any insights or comments on both models in terms of the pros and cons. Thank you.
Paul
Hi Vincent,
1. The deck on the Craftsman Pro is also 12 ga. CR does rate the cut of the 46 inch Craftsman Pro better than the D160/D155’s 48 inch deck but the difference is very small. If you are going to bag a lot the 2-blade deck will bag better.
2. A K46 on a 48 inch deck will do fine. Just so you know there are over 100 variations of the K46 and since the D160 has the same top speed as the Craftsman Pro I have a feeling it has a different internal gearing. So I would not be concerned unless your entire lawn is sloped more than 10 degrees.
3. The Kohler 7000 is gaining a great reputation. It just does not have any problems. The ELS is also a very good engine, it’s been around longer and you hear very few issues with it – ever.
The breakage rate for the Craftsman is skewed a little for 2 reasons. One they sell 2-3 really cheap lawn tractors and the people who buy them usually don’t know how to maintain them, so they break more often. Second, and I don’t know if CR even factored this in. The red Craftsman Yard tractors were the first on the market with the CVT trans. People didn’t know how to maintain it and the mechanics didn’t know how to adjust it for the first two years. Because of that a lot more transmissions got replaced when they just should have been adjusted. That said, The repair rate on the Craftsman Pro is stellar – it just doesn’t break compared to lawn tractors built just 10 years ago.
So, I have no problems suggesting either mower to you. What to you like Green/Yellow or Black/Yellow 🙂
Lance Matusek
Hi Paul, I was wondering if you could tell me the difference between the John Deere S240 Sport and the John Deere 160? What factors differ between the two that justify spending more money for the S240 Sport when it has a smaller cutting deck and smaller engine than the 160? I live in the woods with sloping terrain, which tractor would be more suitable for on hills?
Thanks, Lance
Paul
Hi Lance, The S240 has the same frame, 42 inch Edge cutting deck, and transmission as the D140. It has the same transmission and frame as the D160.
Kawasaki engine instead of a Briggs & Stratton – better seat and more dealer profit.
Some people feel Kawasaki is better – I have no opinion either way.
So, is a better seat, different engine and a 2-bar ($75) bumper worth an extra $500? I’ll let you decide.
You’ll be happy with the D140.
Jim
Is it worth the extra $$ for the JD S240? I pull a 17p cart and cut a 1 acre mostly flat. I plan to keep the tractor long term.
Thanks.
Paul
Hi Jim, The S240 has the same frame, Edge cutting deck, and transmission as the D140.
Kawasaki engine instead of a Briggs – better seat and more dealer profit.
Some people feel Kawasaki is better – I have no opinion either way.
So, is a better seat, different engine and a 2-bar ($75) bumper worth an extra $500? I’ll let you decide.
Dan
I just sold my (worn out) L100 and purchased a zero turn. I am disabled and can’t really use my right foot, I would have liked a D series but I am very disappointed that the entire line now requires of a pedal on the right side! Bring one back without a right pedal!
Paul
Hi Dan, Yes, fender control used to be very common. Today, only Craftsman offers good mowers with a fender control.